Why this helps
Game compatibility is often the deciding factor for switchers. A working first game builds confidence fast.
- Unlock Windows-only game catalog
- Reduce dual-boot dependency
- Clear fallback path per game
Step-by-step guide
Enable Steam Proton for Windows games
Turn on Proton compatibility so many Windows-only games run directly on Linux.
Proton setup path
- 1. Steam installed + updated
- 2. Enable Steam Play (all titles)
- 3. Select stable Proton version
- 4. Test one known-compatible game
Detailed steps
Step 1: Install Steam from distro repo
Install Steam from your distro package source and log in once to let runtime dependencies download.
# Ubuntu / Debian
sudo apt update && sudo apt install -y steam
# Fedora
sudo dnf install -y steam
# Arch
sudo pacman -S --noconfirm steamStep 2: Enable Steam Play globally
Open Steam > Settings > Compatibility, then enable both "supported titles" and "all other titles".
Step 3: Choose a Proton version
Select the latest stable Proton release. Use Proton Experimental only if a specific game guide recommends it.
Step 4: Test one game with low risk
Start with a game marked Gold/Platinum on ProtonDB before testing difficult anti-cheat titles.
How to verify
- Steam downloads and launches a Windows-only title
- Game starts without immediate crash
- Audio and controller input work in-game
Troubleshooting
Game does not launch at all
- Force a different Proton version in game properties.
- Delete the game's Proton prefix and relaunch.
Anti-cheat error appears
- Check ProtonDB and game forums for Linux anti-cheat status.
- Keep Windows dual boot for games that still block Linux.